26 Facts About Bob Simon

Early Life and Education

Bob Simon, a legendary journalist, had a life filled with fascinating experiences from the very beginning. Here are some intriguing facts about his early years and education.

1. Born on May 29, 1941, in the Bronx, New York, Bob Simon grew up in a Jewish family.
2. He attended Brandeis University, where he graduated with a degree in history in 1962.
3. Simon was a Fulbright Scholar and spent a year studying in France.
4. He served in the United States Army Reserve, which helped shape his discipline and resilience.

Career Beginnings

Bob Simon's career in journalism began in the 1960s, and he quickly made a name for himself. Let's explore some key moments from his early career.

5. Simon started his journalism career at CBS News in 1967 as a reporter and assignment editor.
6. He covered the Vietnam War extensively, providing firsthand accounts from the front lines.
7. In 1971, he was named the CBS News bureau chief in Saigon, Vietnam.
8. Simon's reporting during the Vietnam War earned him several awards, including an Overseas Press Club award.

Major Assignments and Achievements

Throughout his career, Bob Simon took on numerous significant assignments that showcased his exceptional reporting skills. Here are some highlights.

9. Simon covered the Yom Kippur War in 1973, reporting from the front lines in the Middle East.
10. He was one of the few journalists to report from inside Iran during the Iranian Revolution in 1979.
11. In 1987, Simon became the CBS News bureau chief in Tel Aviv, Israel.
12. He covered the Gulf War in 1991, where he and his crew were captured and held for 40 days by Iraqi forces.
13. Simon's reporting on the Gulf War earned him a George Polk Award for bravery and excellence in journalism.

60 Minutes and Later Career

Bob Simon's work on the iconic news program "60 Minutes" solidified his status as a journalistic legend. Here are some notable facts about this period of his career.

14. Simon joined "60 Minutes" in 1996, where he became known for his in-depth and compelling stories.
15. He reported on a wide range of topics, from international conflicts to human interest stories.
16. Simon's story on the Lost Boys of Sudan won an Emmy Award in 2006.
17. He received numerous other awards during his time on "60 Minutes," including multiple Peabody Awards.
18. Simon's final report for "60 Minutes" aired just days before his tragic death in 2015.

Personal Life and Legacy

Bob Simon's personal life and legacy are as remarkable as his professional achievements. Here are some facts that shed light on the man behind the journalist.

19. Simon was married to Françoise Simon, and they had one daughter, Tanya Simon.
20. Tanya followed in her father's footsteps and became a producer for "60 Minutes."
21. Simon was known for his love of travel and adventure, often seeking out stories in remote and dangerous locations.
22. He authored a memoir titled "Forty Days," which detailed his captivity during the Gulf War.
23. Simon's colleagues and friends remembered him as a fearless and dedicated journalist with a passion for storytelling.
24. He was posthumously awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences in 2015.
25. Simon's work continues to inspire journalists around the world, serving as a benchmark for excellence in the field.
26. A scholarship in his name was established at Brandeis University to support aspiring journalists.

Bob Simon's Legacy

Bob Simon's career was nothing short of remarkable. From covering the Vietnam War to reporting on the Arab Spring, his work spanned decades and continents. He earned over 40 major awards, including multiple Emmys, for his fearless journalism. Simon's storytelling captivated millions, bringing global events into living rooms with clarity and compassion. His dedication to uncovering the truth set a high standard in journalism. Even after his tragic passing in 2015, his legacy lives on through the stories he told and the impact he made on the industry. Bob Simon wasn't just a reporter; he was a pioneer who inspired countless journalists to pursue the truth, no matter the cost. His contributions to journalism will be remembered for generations, ensuring his place as one of the most respected figures in the field.